Offbeat Traveler: New UNESCO World Heritage sites

CaptionChurch of the Nativity, Bethlehem

Musa al Shaer / AFP/Getty Images

This church is built on the traditionally recognized birthplace of Jesus, about six miles south of Bethlehem. The existing structure dates back to the 6th century, when a new church was built to replace the 4th century complex that burned down.

This church is built on the traditionally recognized birthplace of Jesus, about six miles south of Bethlehem. The existing structure dates back to the 6th century, when a new church was built to replace the 4th century complex that burned down. (Musa al Shaer / AFP/Getty Images)

Grand-Bassam, located in southeastern Côte d'Ivoire, served as the country's capital during the late 19th century. It blends European and Africa influences and several buildings from the town's colonial period remain today.

Grand-Bassam, located in southeastern Côte d'Ivoire, served as the country's capital during the late 19th century. It blends European and Africa influences and several buildings from the town's colonial period remain today. (Issouf Sanogo / AFP/Getty Images)

The World Heritage Committee inscribed 26 new places to its well-regarded list of cultural and natural sites during its 36th session in late June and early July. Sites were drawn from five continents. Chad, Congo, Palau and Palestine are represented for the first time. Here's a look at notable additions, including the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon in Palau, Margravial Opera House in Bayreuth, Germany and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, revered by Christians as the site of Jesus' birth.